Technology in cars is evolving to make driving safer. Integrated systems, cameras, sensors, and software are increasingly used in cars to help drivers avoid potential hazards. Although they are not yet in place in every vehicle on the road, it is anticipated that they will reduce accidents by using advanced warnings and by taking more control over the vehicle. This article provides an overview of how technology has advanced and also discusses how these very changes may help improve safety.
Advanced warning systems
Many cars have a variety of sensors in place to detect other vehicles or obstacles in the road. Passive infrared sensors, radar, and video cameras are used to see in front, behind, and even around corners. In addition, many vehicles use GPS to keep track of the vehicle’s location and the direction it is heading. When a driver approaches an object that could cause harm, they are alerted by a beeping sound or a vibration from the seat. Some systems also flash a warning light on the dashboard. These active warnings are designed to help drivers avoid potential collisions by giving them time to slow down or maneuver out of the way.
Advanced adaptive cruise control systems
Advanced automatic cruise control systems are designed to assist drivers in making adjustments during busy traffic conditions. The settings are changed by the driver, who may decide on their course of action. An example will be if there is heavy traffic on a crowded freeway where changing lanes frequently would slow them down. The driver would set the cruise control to use the most efficient driving pattern by driving in their lane. The advanced system will then determine what action is most important based on the traffic conditions and control of the vehicle.
Enhanced safety belt systems
Modern cars have installed safety belts in all seats. These help keep the driver and passengers secure in the event of an accident. A sensor is placed on each safety belt to detect when it has been fastened. When moving the vehicle, airbags are deployed in case the sensors detect a collision is imminent. Advanced systems can distinguish between when a human is wearing a seatbelt or an empty seat, thus avoiding excessive airbag deployment in the latter case, which would be unnecessary and possibly dangerous.
Advanced braking systems
Several systems are under development to assist drivers with braking. One system uses cameras to detect objects in front of the vehicle and alert the driver if they are closing in at a high rate of speed. A radar sensor can then automatically apply the brakes, reducing the severity of an impact. For instance, if an object is about to run into the back of a large, heavy truck, its computerized cruise control system will apply the brakes rapidly to avoid rear-ending it.
Conclusion
The technology in cars has advanced to the point where safety features are becoming commonplace. They are expected to become even more advanced in the future with systems capable of steering, braking, warning drivers of hazards at high speeds, preventing accidents by anticipating the behavior of other drivers, and taking over complete control of a vehicle when it is about to crash.A car accident attorney specializes in accidents that involve another vehicle or pedestrian. Lawyer helps the victims recover from the damages they suffer.
